Travel Back in Time to a Victorian Costume Ball

Here's your chance to party like it's 1861!

On Feb. 25 at the Carriage House at Rockwood Park (610 Shipley Road, Wilmington, Del.), you'll be transported back to the 19th century as you and 99 other guests dance, mingle and raise money for Rockwood's Museum Conservatory at the Victorian Costume Ball.

Mistress of Ceremonies Eliza Blackwell Dupree will guide guests through lessons in Victorian courtship, rules of etiquette and other traditional rituals.

You will learn the Ballroom Waltz, the Virginia Reel and the Saratoga Lancers Quadrille (we've never heard of it either), instructed by Tapestry Historic Dance Ensemble and featuring live music by the string quartet, String Theory.

Wine and sherry libations will be available at $3 per glass along with complementary appetizers such as tea sandwiches, crudites and cheese trays.

Rockwood Museum President June Zappa said organizers try to keep the ball "as close as possible to what would have taken place at a dance during the Civil War" and that some re-enactors take it very seriously (though costumes are not required, they are encouraged).

Fliers for the event advertise a possible appearance by Queen Victoria and other Civil War generals and admirals.

There will be a silent auction and a chance to have your photo taken in a Victorian-era setting.

The event will start with a traditional Grand March at 8 p.m. and run until 11 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and registration is required. Tickets are available online.

Contact Us